
The best outdoor concerts in NYC this summer
We’ve put together a definitive list of this summer’s not-to-be-missed outdoor concerts—just don’t forget the sunscreen
One of the great pleasures of summer is the opportunity to see live outdoor concerts on a sunny June afternoon or a balmy August evening. Dig into our list of this year's summer concerts in NYC, including plentiful offerings from summer music festivals at our favorite NYC parks.
RECOMMENDED: See our guide to concerts in NYC
Outdoor concerts in NYC this summer
Courtney Barnett + Julien Baker + Vagabon
Melbourne singer-songwriter and guitarist Barnett teams with two other indie stars: Laetitia Tamko of Vagabon and melancholic songsmith Baker. A streak of quiet, lyrical resilience runs through the work of all three, though each artist refracts that quality through her own unique prism. Count on tight performances that showcase the talents of these breakthrough artists.
Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue + Galatic + Preservation Hall Jazz Band + New Breed Brass Band
Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews grew up playing alongside New Orleans' nimblest brass men. Now he's developed into one of the Big Easy's best, playing trumpet and composing, as well as continuing with the ’bone. For all his refinement, his powerhouse band, Orleans Avenue, pumps out the raw grooves for maximum ass-moving. At this Voodoo Threauxdown the group is joined by a legion of funky cohorts including the Meters' Cyril Neville, singer-guitarist Walter “Wolfman” Washington and trumpeter Kermit Ruffins.
Dark Star Orchestra
To call Dark Star Orchestra a Grateful Dead tribute band doesn't quite capture the depth of its obsession with the classic outfit. DSO copies its heroes (and recently spin-offs like Jerry Garcia Band) down to the set list. On the road since 1997, the band has surpassed the number of gigs the original Dead itself played, so there's no question as to these guys' road credentials.
Porches + Sunflower Bean + Crumb
Recording under the alias of Porches, Aaron Maine has managed to create the musical representation of the shy, awkward teenager in every John Hughes movie. For this triple threat, Porches plays alongside rocking NYC trio Sunflower Bean and the jazzy, grooving up-and-coming quartet Crumb.
Godspeed You! Black Emperor
On its latest album, Luciferian Towers, the Canadian collective channels an orchestral cacophony, layering frantic arrangements of violins, horns and drums with killer riffs. The band patiently builds toward huge musical moments, which should sound absolutely glorious in Brooklyn’s finest green space.
The Breeders + Speedy Ortiz
The ’90s indie act still rocks with insouciantly punky cool. Its reunited lineup, with sisters Kim and Kelley Deal, Josephine Wiggs and Jim Macpherson, plays behind a strong new release, All Nerve, for an entry fee of absolutely zilch.
Charlie Parker Jazz Festival
This year’s edition of the city’s roaming ode to Bird features another boundary-pushing bill, which includes the new lineup of jazz trio the Bad Plus (with Orrin Evans on keys), R&B-inspired trumpeter Keyon Harrold and Adam O’Farrill, the postbopping son of bandleader Arturo (and grandson of the equally legendary Chico).
Looking for more concerts this summer?
Check out the best summer concerts in NYC
Check out our top picks for this year’s summer concerts in NYC, including info on free and outdoor shows